Discussion: A naturalistic study of a teaching method

✍ Scribed by Stephen L. Yelon; Colleen R. Cooper

• Book ID: 104624304
• Publisher: Springer Netherlands
• Year: 1984
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 647 KB
• Volume: 13
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0020-4277
• DOI: 10.1007/bf00055532

✦ Synopsis

A naturalistic study was conducted to provide detailed answers to such questions as: how to prepare for a discussion, how to begin a discussion, how to react to student responses while maintaining the flow of ideas, how to keep on track to cover what is necessary, and how to end a discussion. The researchers base their findings on their observations and interpretations combined with the meanings ascribed to events by the participating instructor and students. The article includes a generalized description of a discussion approach called "controlled dialogue" as well as specific illustrations of each facet of the method. The authors raise questions about the utility of this type of research and its findings and draw implications regarding the possible applications of the research method and findings. Teaching improvement programs and research on teaching methods may benefit.